Joe Hart has been built up – now he is steeling himself for a fall.

Despite being plastered on the front pages enjoying some down time in Spain last week, it would be a major surprise if Hart was not in goal for England’s Euro 2012 qualifier with Montenegro at Wembley tomorrow.

The 23-year-old had enough admirers in the summer calling for his inclusion during the Three Lions’ dismal World Cup campaign.

When he was finally installed as Fabio Capello’s number one ahead of the August friendly win over Hungary, it was merely confirming what many have known for some time; Hart is a goalkeeper of outstanding ability.

Apart from one bad mistake against Blackburn, plaudits have continued to be paid at regular intervals following a string of outstanding performances with both club and country.

But the Manchester City star is only too aware that a day will come when the critics’ judgement will be harsh. He merely views it as part of his education.

“I am well aware that the pressure is there,” Hart said. “People build you up and as soon as anything does go slightly wrong then they are hard on you.

“But that is the nature of the game and if I want to be at the top level then I think you’ve just got to be prepared for things like that.

“It is another thing you need to work on. Another thing you need to be good at is taking criticism.”

As far as his international career is concerned, Hart is benefiting from the continuity that comes from having so many Manchester City players around him, and Capello’s nationality.

Although the wily old Juventus coach is far more experienced than City boss Roberto Mancini, they share the same thought processes, which is making life easier for keeper Hart, who has still only won six caps.